Periodontics

What is a Periodontist?

Periodontists are dentists best known for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum disease. Periodontists also receive extensive training in dental surgery (extractions), dental implants (including dentures), crown lengthening, and bone & gum grafts. Periodontal treatment can be used to arrest disease, improve a patient's mouth cosmetically, or both.

What is gum disease?

The first stage of gum disease is called gingivitis. Patients affected by gingivitis may experience bleeding easily when brushing, flossing and when being probed during dental checkups. When left untreated, gingivitis can advance to periodontitis. Periodontitis occurs when untreated plaque and build-up spreads below the gum line and can affect tissue and even bone. Patients with periodontitis have extremely inflamed gums which can bleed to the touch, gum tissue that separates from the teeth or recedes, loss of teeth, or even bone loss.

How is gum disease treated?

Scaling is a special type of cleaning treatment for those with mild to moderate stages of periodontal disease. Your hygienist will use special instruments and take care to clean not only all surfaces of each of your teeth, but under your gums as well, removing all harmful bacteria. This is typically done in multiple visits for the comfort of the patient.

What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant (also known as a fixture) is a surgical component that provides a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The implant interfaces with the bone of the jaw or skull to support a dental prosthesis such as a crown, bridge, denture, facial prosthesis or to act as an orthodontic anchor.

Who Benefits From Dental Implants?

Should you lose one or more teeth (due to periodontal disease or another cause), a dental implant is designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. The patient regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved.

I Have So Many Questions, Where Do I Begin?

Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success. Please give our office a call to schedule your initial consult. We will also discuss fees and insurance during your visit. There are many types of insurance plans, and coverage for implants is varied. We will be happy to assist you in obtaining any benefits to which you may be entitled.